Pelting machines shelved

Press, 10 December 1981, Page 16

Pelting machines shelved

PA Palmerston North Plans to install pelting machines at the Longburn freezing works this season have been abandoned. Instead the owners, Borthwick-CWS, will run three conventional chains and continue experimenting with the fourth chain, which has pelting machines installed. - The general manager of Borthwick-CWS, Mr Bill Gordon, said that outside interference in the agreement with the Longburn workers had resulted in the company’s decision. “We were left in the situation where both parties still wanted the same objectives but were unable to find a solution, bearing in mind the misunderstanding that existed in other quarters.

“With the onset of the

season and our responsibility to our employees and farmers, we have decided meanwhile to shelve the attempt to introduce mechanical dressing at Longburn this season,” he said. Mr Gordon said the decision was made after deep consideration and with a lot of regret. “We believe our objectives were sound and the achievement of them was, and still is, in the best interests of the industry.”

He said that the union had been consulted and approved the company’s decision. “However, negotiations will continue on the Longburn job creation scheme in an effort to achieve all objectives by the beginning of the next season.” Mr Gordon said at the start of negotiations that the

union and management at Longburn had clear objectives.

“That was to have mechanical dressing on all four chains, giving an increase in productivity, greater job opportunities and enhancement for our employees, plus lower unit cost for the company.

“The final result of this would have been a most competitive killing charge for farmers.

“Unfortunately, our objectives did not meet with the approval of the authorities,” he said.

“With the season right on us and hundreds of our employees wanting to start work we had to make a decision.

“We are not backing away from our original aims,” Mr Gordon said.